Exercise methods and apparatus simulating stand-up paddle boarding

ABSTRACT

An exercise apparatus includes a frame; a platform configured to receive a person in a standing position, the platform connected to the frame; a handheld component configured to be held by a person standing on the platform; and an impeller-driven fluid circulation system. Manipulation of the handheld component by a person standing on the platform results in driving of the impeller and circulation of fluid within the fluid circulation system. The platform may rock from side to side, whereby a person standing on the platform must maintain balance while manipulating the handheld component. The handheld component may simulate a paddle and may include an elongate shaft. In this respect, the paddle component is used by a person standing on the platform as if the paddle component were a paddle used in paddleboarding, including manipulating the paddle component through a rowing motion that preferably would be experienced when actually paddleboarding.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a U.S. continuation patent application of,and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patentapplication Ser. No. 13/429,162, filed Mar. 23, 2012, which '162application, and any application publication thereof and patent issuingtherefrom, is incorporated herein by reference; and which '162application is a U.S. continuation-in-part patent application of, andclaims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patentapplication Ser. No. 13/406,529, filed Feb. 27, 2012, which '529application, and any application publication thereof and any patentissuing therefrom, is incorporated herein by reference.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyrightprotection under the copyright laws of the United States and othercountries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimilereproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure,as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all othercopyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to exercise methods andapparatus and, more specifically, to exercise methods and apparatus forsimulating stand-up paddleboarding.

Stand-up paddle boarding is an emerging global sport. The sport benefitsathletes with a strong workout of the core. Unlike surfing, stand-uppaddle boarding is very easy to learn and is growing in popularity.Beginners usually can become very comfortable paddle boarding after onlybrief training and, unlike surfing, paddle boarding can be done withoutregard to the tide and condition of waves and swells. Moreover,paddleboarding can be done on rivers and lakes, and is not limited touse on the ocean. It is therefore understandable that paddle boarding isa growing recreational activity at many resorts and vacationdestinations.

Paddleboarding is also a great exercise. Paddleboarding conditions notonly the arm muscles, but also the back, the abdomen and the legs, whichmust stay engaged to keep the board from tipping. Paddleboarding also isa low impact activity, unlike running for example.

Paddleboards generally range in length between twelve and eighteen feetand resemble long surfboards. The paddle generally should extend inlength to five-to-seven inches above a user's height, and the paddlegenerally includes a blade, shaft and handle. In particular, the paddletypically includes a flat blade on one end connecting to a handle on theother end by a long shaft. The blade ranges from six to ten inches inwidth with an oval or round shaft ranging from 67 to 86 inches in lengthwith a one to one-and-a-half inch diameter. Blades can be designed withseveral shapes and features. Normally the blade has a pizza stone shapesometimes having a slight keel on the back side of the blade. Othercommonly used shapes include diamonds, or oar like blades.

In operation, while standing on a board the user holds the paddle withone hand on the top of the handle and the other hand approximatelyone-third of the way down the shaft. The hand placement alternatesdepending on the side on which the user paddles. When paddling on theright side the handle is held with the left hand and the shaft with theright, and when paddling on the left side the handle is held with theright hand and the shaft with the left. When paddling the blade isplaced in the water about one or two feet in front of the user. Thepaddle is then pulled through the water with a motion similar to theuser punching with the top hand. The motion is continued until the bladeis pulled through the water to a point approximately six inches to afoot behind the user's body, thereby performing a backstroke.

While paddleboarding provides a great workout, it is not always possibleto paddleboard due to poor weather, due to being in a location at whichpaddleboarding in not possible (such as away from water), or both. Insuch situations, it is believed that a need exists for simulatingpaddleboarding so as to provide some of the aforementioned benefits thatcome from paddleboarding as an exercise.

With regard to known exercise apparatus, an exercise machine isdisclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0275489 thathas a pair of spaced-apart vertical columns each with hollow tubularbody with a weighted plunger attached to a cable for verticalreciprocation while a user performs power and return stroke movements onan instrument attached to the other end of the cable. The plunger ishydraulically coupled to an air channel fed by an air-through valvesized to control air movement into the air channel by the rising plungerduring a power stroke to approximate water resistance to an oar, paddleor arm in the water. The air channel has a release opening for releasingair balanced against the weight of the falling plunger to approximatelifting an oar, paddle, or arm out of the water on a return stroke. Theexercise machine can be used to practice a wide range of water sportstraining exercises for swimming, paddleboarding, canoe paddling, androwing.

While the exercise machine disclosed in this patent publication appearsto be suitable for its intended purpose, and the disclosure thereof isincorporated herein by reference for background to the presentinvention, it is believed that improved exercise apparatus and methodsnonetheless are needed for simulating paddleboarding. Accordingly, it isbelieved that one or more of these needs are addressed by one or moreaspects of the invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover,while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in, thecontext of simulating paddleboarding, the present invention is notlimited to use only in simulating paddleboarding, as will becomeapparent from the following summaries and detailed descriptions ofaspects, features, and one or more embodiments of the present invention.

Accordingly, in an aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatusincludes: a frame; a platform configured to receive a person in astanding position, the platform connected to the frame; a handheldcomponent configured to be held by a person standing on the platform;and, an impeller-driven fluid circulation system, wherein manipulationof the handheld component by a person standing on the platform resultsin driving of the impeller and circulation of fluid within the fluidcirculation system.

In a feature of this aspect, the platform rocks from side to side,whereby a person standing on the platform balances on the platform whilemanipulating the handheld component for driving of the impeller andcirculation of fluid within the fluid circulation system.

In another feature, the frame is a support structure.

In another feature, the handheld component is a paddle component thatincludes an elongate shaft. In this respect, the paddle componentpreferably is used by a person standing on the platform as if the paddlecomponent were a paddle used in paddleboarding, including manipulatingthe paddle component through a rowing motion that preferably would beexperienced when actually paddleboarding.

In another aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatus for simulatingpaddleboarding includes: an elongate support structure; a platformconnected to the support structure for supporting a person standingthereon; a paddle component configured to be held by a person standingon the platform and handled, by a person standing on the platform, as ifit were a paddle used in paddleboarding; a housing connected to thesupport platform; and a tensioning line extending from the housing tothe paddle component.

Additionally, the paddle component includes an elongate shaft. Thetensioning line includes a first connector in proximity to a first endof the tensioning line, and the paddle component includes a secondconnector in proximity to a first end of the elongate shaft. The firstand second connectors are configured to connect together, for connectingthe paddle component to the tensioning line during the handling of thepaddle component, by a person standing on the platform, as if it were apaddle used in paddleboarding; and are configured to disconnect from oneanother for disconnecting the paddle component from the tensioning line.The housing is spaced from the platform by a longitudinal distancesufficient to permit handling of the paddle component, by a personstanding on the platform, as if it were a paddle used in paddleboarding.A second end of the tensioning line is secured within the housing, withthe tensioning line extending from the housing when the first and secondconnectors are connected.

The housing includes a spring-biased spooling assembly configured, whenthe first and second connectors are connected, to wind the tensioningline thereon during the handling of the paddle component, by a personstanding on the platform, as if the paddle component were a paddle usedin paddleboarding, whereby tension is maintained in the tensioning lineand the tensioning line is retracted into the housing when the first endof the paddle component moves toward the housing during such handling

The housing also includes a transmission system and an impeller-drivenfluid circulation system. The transmission system interconnects thespring-biased spooling assembly and an impeller of the impeller-drivenfluid circulation system such that extension of the tensioning lineoutside of the housing during such handling results in driving of theimpeller and circulation of fluid within the fluid circulation system.

In a feature, the transmission system includes a one-way clutchassembly, whereby retraction of the tensioning line into the housingdoes not result in driving of the impeller. The one-way clutch assemblypreferably includes a one-way bearing.

In another feature, the transmission system includes a timing belt.

In another feature, the spring-biased spooling assembly comprises aconstant-force spring, which preferably exerts a generally constantforce in opposition to unwinding of the tensioning line during extensionof the tensioning line from the housing.

In another feature, the paddle component includes a T-shaped handle at atop end of the shaft; and a handle grip along an extent of the shaftbetween the top end and a middle of the shaft. Furthermore, the paddlecomponent does not include a blade; in other embodiments, the paddlecomponent does include a blade.

In another feature, the circulation system is a closed system and thefluid is recirculated through the system.

In another feature, the platform is connected to the support structuresuch that the platform pivots about an axis extending generally parallelto the longitudinal spacing between the platform and the housing.Accordingly, a person standing on the platform preferably must balancehis or her weight between the left and right legs when trying to keepthe platform level during the handling of the paddle component as if thepaddle component were a paddle used in paddleboarding. Preferably, oneor more resilient members are positioned under the platform so that theplatform engages the resilient members during pivoting of the platform,whereby rocking motion of the platform is dampened. Preferably, astabilizing mechanism is also included which, when engaged, locks theplatform against movement relative to the support structure. Preferably,the stabilizing mechanism is foot-operated, and a person can use theexercise device with rocking or without rocking of the standingplatform, as desired.

In another feature, the exercise apparatus further comprises anauxiliary resistance system for providing additional resistance toextension of the tensioning line outside of the housing and theconsequent driving of the impeller. The auxiliary resistance systempreferably includes a magnetic disc driven by the transmission systemthrough a magnetic field. Furthermore, an extent of the magnetic fieldthrough which the magnetic disc is driven by the transmission systempreferably is adjustable such that the resistance provided by theauxiliary resistance system is adjustable. A control may be used whereinadjustment of the control results in adjustment of the resistanceprovided by the auxiliary resistance system. In this respect, thecontrol and the first end of the shaft of the paddle componentpreferably are configured to engage one another for adjustment of thecontrol by a person standing on the platform. Such adjustment may beaccomplished by inserting this end of the shaft into a recess of thecontrol and rotating the shaft about an axis of the shaft.

In another feature, the fluid circulation system includes a fluid. Thefluid may be water or a water-based solution. Preferably, the fluidcirculation system has a capacity of about three fluid gallons.

In another aspect of the invention, a method of exercising thatsimulates paddleboarding includes the steps of: standing on a platform;and while standing on the platform, handling a paddle component of anexercise machine as if the paddle component were a paddle used inpaddleboarding by manipulating the paddle component through a rowingmotion including a backstroke. A resistance is encountered during thebackstroke of the rowing motion that is similar to a resistanceencountered when a paddle is used in paddleboarding to propel apaddleboard.

With further accordance with this aspect, the backstroke of the rowingmotion results in the drawing out of a tensioning line of the exercisemachine which, in turn, causes an impeller of the exercise machine to bedriven such that a fluid is circulated through a closed system of theexercise machine. Additionally, tension is maintained in the tensioningline during the rowing motion by spring-biasing a spooling assembly ofthe exercise machine to wind-up the tensioning line. The backstroke actsin opposition to the spring-biasing of the spooling assembly, and thetensioning line is wound-up as the paddle component moves toward thehousing during the rowing motion.

In a feature, the platform pivots or rocks side to side. Furthermore,the method includes the step of balancing by a person on the platformwhile manipulating the paddle component through the rowing motion.

In yet another aspect, a method of providing an exercise experiencesimulating paddleboarding includes the steps of: spring-biasing aspooling assembly of an exercise machine to wind-up a tensioning line;and causing an impeller of the exercise machine to be driven such that afluid is circulated through a closed system of the exercise machine whenthe tensioning line is drawn out during the backstroke of the rowingmotion. The spring-biasing of the spooling assembly acts in oppositionto a force drawing out the tensioning line that results from abackstroke of a rowing motion of a paddle component.

In a feature, the spring-biasing of the spooling assembly is performedusing a constant-force spring.

In another feature, the method further includes providing resistance tothe drawing out of the tensioning line by causing a magnetic disc tospin within a magnetic field as the tensioning line is unwound. In thisrespect, the method further includes adjusting the resistance that isprovided to the drawing out of the tensioning line by changing themagnetic field through which the magnetic disk spins as the tensioningline is unwound.

In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the presentinvention, it should be noted that the present invention furtherencompasses the various possible combinations and subcombinations ofsuch aspects and features. Thus, for example, any aspect may be combinedwith an aforementioned feature in accordance with the present inventionwithout requiring any other aspect or feature.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more preferred embodiments of the present invention now will bedescribed in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exercise apparatus in accordance witha preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of part of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a first side of the part of the exerciseapparatus of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of an opposite side of the part of the exerciseapparatus.

FIG. 5 is a perspective, partial view of an end of the exerciseapparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 comprises the view of FIG. 5 in which the housing and othercomponents have been omitted.

FIG. 7 comprises the view of FIG. 6 with additional components omitted.

FIG. 8 comprises the view of FIG. 7 with additional components omitted.

FIG. 9 comprises the view of FIG. 8 with additional components omitted.

FIG. 10 comprises the view of FIG. 9 with additional components omitted.

FIG. 11 comprises the view of FIG. 10 with additional componentsomitted.

FIG. 12 comprises the view of FIG. 11 with additional componentsomitted.

FIGS. 1 a-12 a represent grayscale drawings corresponding to the blackand white drawings of FIGS. 1-12, and are provided for additionalclarity and perspective.

FIG. 13 a is a perspective view of a portion of a prototype of anexercise apparatus in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 14 a is a perspective view of another exercise apparatus inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 a is another perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.14 a.

FIG. 16 a is another perspective view up of the exercise apparatus ofFIG. 14 a.

FIG. 16 b is another perspective view up of the exercise apparatus ofFIG. 14 a.

FIG. 17 a is another perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.14 a.

FIG. 18 a is another perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.14 a.

FIG. 19 a is another perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.14 a.

FIG. 20 a is a perspective view of another exercise apparatus inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 a is another perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.20 a.

FIG. 22 a is a top perspective view of the exercise apparatus of FIG. 20a.

FIG. 23 a is a perspective, cutaway view of an exercise apparatus inaccordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 a is a perspective, cutaway view of a portion of the apparatusof FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 25 a is a perspective, cutaway view of a portion of the apparatusof FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 26 a is a perspective, cutaway view of a portion of the apparatusof FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 27 a is a perspective, cutaway view of a portion of the apparatusof FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 28 a is a perspective view of a portion of another exerciseapparatus in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 a is a perspective view of a portion of the exercise apparatusof FIG. 28 a.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one havingordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the presentinvention has broad utility and application. As should be understood,any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of theabove-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporateonly one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore,any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” isconsidered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out thepresent invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed foradditional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enablingdisclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, anyembodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of theabove-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporateonly one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, manyembodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, andequivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodimentsdescribed herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detailin relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that thisdisclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, andis made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enablingdisclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein ofone or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, tolimit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention,which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof.It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded thepresent invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitationfound herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps ofvarious processes or methods that are described herein are illustrativeand not restrictive.

Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of variousprocesses or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequenceor temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are notlimited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absentan indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methodsgenerally may be carried out in various different sequences and orderswhile still falling within the scope of the present invention.Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection affordedthe present invention is to be defined by the appended claims ratherthan the description set forth herein.

Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refersto that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to meanbased on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that themeaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisanbased on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from anyparticular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that themeaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan shouldprevail.

Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6 with respect to the UnitedStates, no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with thisstatutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for”is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutoryprovision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claimelement.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an”each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a pluralityunless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “apicnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having atleast one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” Incontrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes“a picnic basket having only one apple.”

When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one ofthe items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus,reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “apicnic basket having cheese without crackers”, “a picnic basket havingcrackers without cheese”, and “a picnic basket having both cheese andcrackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and”denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnicbasket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket havingcheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well asdescribes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basketfurther has cheese.”

Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of thepresent invention are next described. The following description of oneor more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in noway intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exercise apparatus 10 in accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the invention. The exercise apparatus 10includes a paddle component 12, a tensioning line 14, and a housing 16.The exercise device 10 also includes a platform 18 for standing upon bya person when exercising, and an elongate support structure 20 to whichthe housing 16 and platform 18 are connected.

The paddle component includes a shaft 22, T-shaped handle 24 at a topend of the shaft 22, and a pad forming a grip 26 extending along anextent of the shaft 22 between the top end and a middle of the shaft 22.

The housing 16 includes a cover 28 from which the tensioning line 14 isshown extending in FIG. 1. One end of the tensioning line 14 is securedwithin the housing 16, and another end of the tensioning line 14 issecured to the end of the shaft 22 opposite the handle 24, as shown inFIG. 1.

The platform 18 includes a top surface that generally comprises twomirrored sections 36, each of which is configured to receive a foot orshoe of a person standing on the platform 18. Each section 36 includesprotuberances 37, shown in FIG. 1 as raised ribs, for providing foottraction.

The platform 18 preferably is connected to the support structure 20 suchthat the platform 18 pivots about a platform tilt axis extendinggenerally parallel to the longitudinal spacing L (see FIG. 2) betweenthe platform 18 and the housing 16. Accordingly, a person standing onthe platform 18 in the exercise apparatus 10 preferably must balance hisor her weight between the left and right legs when trying to keep theplatform 18 level during the handling of the paddle component 12, as ifthe paddle component 12 were a paddle used in paddleboarding.

It is believed that it would be desirable to also provide for a stableplatform that is fixed against movement about the platform tilt axis, atleast in some preferred embodiments. To this end, a mechanism alsopreferably is included by which the platform 18 may be locked or fixedagainst pivoting moment. The mechanism preferably comprises a latch.

A cutaway of a platform and a platform latch mechanism 2348 of anexercise device 2300 are shown in FIGS. 23 a and 26 a-27 a, wherein itcan be seen that the platform pivots about a central shaft 2346 when thelatch of the platform latch mechanism 2348 is unlocked. Moreover, thelatch mechanism 2348 preferably includes—and is operable at least forlocking the platform via a person's foot with—a foot pedal 2350 islocated at the forward edge of the platform. When unlocked, the platformcan be tilted from side to side to replicate the feel of an actualpaddleboard in water.

The platform latch mechanism 2348 that stabilizes the platform as shownin FIGS. 23 a and 26 a-27 a preferably is included in the exerciseapparatus 10 by which the platform 18 is selectively locked againstpivoting, side to side movement about the platform tilt axis. Whenengaged, the mechanism preferably locks the platform 18 against movementrelative to the support structure. Accordingly, a person can use theexercise device 10 with rocking or without rocking of the platform 18,as desired.

With brief reference now to FIGS. 28 a and 29 a, which show exerciseapparatus 2800 in accordance with another preferred embodiment, one ormore resilient members in the form of elastomeric spring blocks 2844 arepositioned under the platform in at least some preferred embodiments sothat the platform engages the elastomeric spring blocks 2844 duringpivoting of the platform, whereby rocking motion of the platform isdampened. These elastomeric spring blocks 2844 support, provideresistance to rotation, and self-center the platform.

In particular, the blocks 2844 are positioned between the lowerstructure of the standing platform and the frame rails of the supportstructure. The geometry of elastomeric spring blocks provides a variablespring-rate, which allows people of different body weight to experienceclose to the same range of motion and propensity for the platform tomove. This is beneficial, as a secondary goal of the stand-uppaddleboard exercise apparatus is the act of balancing and the use ofmany different muscle groups to achieve that balance. Durometer of theelastomeric spring blocks preferably is 60 shore a, but different springdesigns with different a combination of different durometer materialscould be used.

Returning now to FIG. 1, two elastomeric spring blocks, such as thoseshown in FIGS. 28 a and 29 a, preferably are located under the platform18 in the exercise apparatus 10, with a respective one disposed undereach section 37 of the platform 18.

With continuing reference again to FIG. 1, this drawing further shows acontrol 38 that may be used by a person standing on the platform 18 foradjustment of a resistance that is experienced when using the exerciseapparatus 10. The mechanisms that provide the resistance are describedin detail below. The adjustment is accomplished, however, as indicatedin FIG. 1, wherein the paddle component 12 is shown having a bottom endthat is receivable within the control 38. In particular, the bottom endof the shaft 22 of the paddle component 12 is shaped and dimensioned tobe received in abutting engagement with a correspondingly shaped anddimensioned recess that is defined in the top of the control 38, asindicated by the dashed line B in FIG. 1. When the first end of theshaft of the paddle component is inserted into the recess, the shaft maybe rotated about its axis resulting in rotation of the control 38.

As shown in FIG. 2, which is a top plan view of part of the exerciseapparatus 10 wherein the paddle component 12 and tensioning line 14 havebeen omitted for illustration purposes, the housing 16 and platform 18are spaced apart along an axis A by a longitudinal distance L. Inparticular, elevated rails 34 extend therebetween. The axis A alsoextends between and equally divides the two mirrored sections 36 asshown in FIG. 2.

The tensioning line 14 preferably includes a first connector 42 locatedin proximity to the end of the tensioning line exterior of the housing16, and the paddle component 12 preferably includes a second connector40 in proximity to the bottom end of the shaft 22. The first and secondconnectors 40,42 are configured to connect together, for connecting thepaddle component 12 to the tensioning line 14 during the handling of thepaddle component 12, by a person standing on the platform 18, as if thepaddle component 12 were a paddle used in paddleboarding; and areconfigured to disconnect from each another for disconnecting the paddlecomponent 12 from the tensioning line 14. The spacing L of the housing16 from the platform 18 is sufficient to permit such handling of thepaddle component 12 by a person standing on the platform 18 as if thepaddle component 12 were a paddle used in paddleboarding.

The exercise apparatus 10 is intended to be used indoors, whether at ahome, gym, office, or other location. The elongate support structure 20supports the platform 18 at an elevation to the floor such that a personsteps up and onto the platform 18 for exercising. The elongate supportstructure 20 includes respective feet 30,32 at opposite ends thereof, asperhaps best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, which are plan views of oppositelateral sides of the exercise apparatus 10 wherein the paddle component12 and tensioning line 14 have been omitted for illustration purposes.

The housing 16 preferably contains, as shown in the drawings, aspring-biased spooling assembly configured, when the first and secondconnectors are connected, to wind the tensioning line thereon during thehandling of the paddle component, by a person standing on the platform,as if the paddle component were a paddle used in paddleboarding. Thespring-biased spooling assembly maintains tension in the tensioning lineand the tensioning line is retracted into the housing when the first endof the paddle component moves toward the housing during such handling.The spring-biased spooling assembly preferably includes a constant-forcespring, which preferably exerts a generally constant force in oppositionto unwinding of the tensioning line during extension of the tensioningline from the housing.

The housing also contains a transmission system and an impeller-drivenfluid circulation system. The transmission system interconnects thespring-biased spooling assembly and an impeller of the impeller-drivenfluid circulation system such that extension of the tensioning lineoutside of the housing during such handling results in driving of theimpeller and circulation of fluid within the fluid circulation system.The transmission system preferably includes a one-way clutch assembly,whereby retraction of the tensioning line into the housing does notresult in driving of the impeller. The one-way clutch assemblypreferably includes a one-way bearing. The transmission system alsopreferably includes a timing belt.

It is currently contemplated that the input torque be transmitted fromthe cord spool through a 1:2.5 timing belt based drive transmission, butother ratios could be utilized. Output from the timing belt transmissiondrives the impeller shaft. Force level experienced by the user isprimarily determined by the RPM of the impeller shaft, which isdetermined by the timing belt transmission ratio. The one-way bearing inone of the pulleys ensures that minimal resistance is felt by the userwhen the cord is being drawn back into the mechanism. Without thisone-way bearing, the drive system would need to reverse on each stroke,and the constant force spring needed to retract the cord would need tobe of a higher force. Thus, resistance is removed from the forwardcomponent of the exercise stroke, replicating the motion of actualstand-up paddling. This water and impeller based mechanism is theprimary resistance system.

The housing also contains an auxiliary resistance system for providingadditional resistance to extension of the tensioning line outside of thehousing and the consequent driving of the impeller. The auxiliaryresistance system preferably includes a magnetic disc driven by thetransmission system through a magnetic field. Furthermore, an extent ofthe magnetic field through which the magnetic disc is driven by thetransmission system preferably is adjustable such that the resistanceprovided by the auxiliary resistance system is adjustable.

Specifically, in the referenced preferred embodiment shown, on thepulley that is attached to the impeller shaft, there is an aluminumconductor disc. This disc utilizes magnetically induced eddy currents toprovide additional resistance. Magnets are positioned on either side ofthe conductor disc. Eddy currents are induced as the disc spins throughthe magnetic field created by the magnet array. These currents create aninductive magnetic field of their own, which opposes the field createdby the magnet array. By changing the position of the magnet array, theeddy currents, and the opposing force component created by the inductivefield they create can be adjusted.

As perhaps best illustrated in FIGS. 24 a-25 a with reference toexercise apparatus 2300, the circulation system is contained within apump housing 2346 and is a closed. The fluid is recirculated through thesystem by driving of the impeller 2375.

FIG. 5 is a perspective, partial view of an end of the exerciseapparatus 10 of FIG. 1, which end includes the housing shown with cover28.

FIG. 6 comprises the view of FIG. 5 in which the housing and othercomponents have been omitted for clarity, whereby additional componentsof the exercise apparatus 10 are revealed. These additional componentsinclude guide rollers 602 for guiding of the tensioning line 14 towardthe spooling assembly 604; and a pump housing 606 of the circulationsystem.

FIG. 7 comprises the view of FIG. 6 in which additional components havebeen omitted for clarity, whereby additional components of the exerciseapparatus 10 are revealed. These additional components include twopulleys 702,704 and a drive-belt 706 of the transmission system.

FIG. 8 comprises the view of FIG. 7 in which additional components havebeen omitted for clarity, whereby additional components of the exerciseapparatus 10 are revealed. These additional components include analuminum conductor disc 802 and magnet array 804 of the auxiliaryresistance system.

FIG. 9 comprises the view of FIG. 8 in which additional components havebeen omitted for clarity, whereby additional components of the exerciseapparatus 10 are revealed. These additional components include the driveshaft 902 by which an impeller located within the pump housing isdriven; and a support framework 904 for the previous components shown,including the transmission system and auxiliary resistance system.

FIG. 10 comprises the view of FIG. 9 in which additional components havebeen omitted for clarity, whereby the shaft 902 and support framework904 are better seen. FIG. 10 further emphasizes the connection of thesupport framework 904 to the support structure 20 of the exerciseapparatus 10.

FIG. 11 comprises the view of FIG. 10 in which additional componentshave been omitted for clarity, whereby additional components of theexercise apparatus 10 are revealed. These additional components includean upper chamber 1102 of the pump housing; a floor 1104 of the upperchamber 1102 including an opening 1106 for the flow of fluid from theupper chamber into a lower chamber 1202 (see FIG. 12); and a passageway1108 by which fluid is pumped from the lower chamber 1202 into the upperchamber 1102. The drive shaft 902 is also shown extending through theupper chamber 1102 into the lower chamber 1202.

FIG. 12 comprises the view of FIG. 11 in which additional componentshave been omitted for clarity, whereby additional components of theexercise apparatus 10 are revealed. These additional components includea lower chamber 1202 of the pump housing and an impeller 1204 locatedwithin the lower chamber 1202 for forcing fluid up through thepassageway 1108 when the impeller 1204 is driven. The drive shaft 902 isalso shown connected to the impeller 1204. The axis A about which thedrive shaft 902 and impeller 1204 rotate is also shown in FIG. 12.

FIGS. 1 a-12 a represent grayscale drawings corresponding to the blackand white drawings of FIGS. 1-12, and are provided for additionalclarity and perspective.

With reference to the remaining drawings not yet discussed, FIG. 13 a isa perspective view of a portion of a prototype of an exercise apparatusin accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein thepaddle 1312 component, with tensioning line 1314 attached thereto, isshown received within a recess 1316 of the support structure for storingwhen the exercise apparatus is not in use; FIGS. 14 a-19 a areperspective views of another exercise apparatus 1400 in accordance witha preferred embodiment of the invention; and FIGS. 20 a-22 a areperspective views of another exercise apparatus 2000 in accordance witha preferred embodiment of the invention.

It will be appreciated that the fluid circulation system includes afluid. The fluid may be water or a water-based solution. It is alsocontemplated that the viscosity of the fluid could be altered to provideadditional baseline resistance; however, the viscosity of the fluidshould not impede the recirculation of the fluid through the closedsystem as shown in FIG. 24 a. Preferably, the fluid circulation systemhas a capacity of about three fluid gallons. In any event, the impellerpreferably is submerged.

In operation of the exercise apparatus 10, for example, which isrepresentative of the simulated paddleboarding in accordance with one ormore preferred embodiments of the invention, a person stands on theplatform and, while standing on the platform, handles the paddlecomponent as if the paddle component were a paddle used inpaddleboarding by manipulating the paddle component through a rowingmotion including a backstroke. The resistance that is encountered duringthe backstroke of the rowing motion that is similar to a resistanceencountered when a paddle is used in paddleboarding to propel apaddleboard. Moreover, the backstroke of the rowing motion results inthe drawing out of a tensioning line of the exercise machine which, inturn, causes an impeller of the exercise machine to be driven such thata fluid is circulated through a closed system of the exercise machine.Additionally, tension is maintained in the tensioning line during therowing motion by the spring-biasing of the spooling assembly of theexercise machine to wind-up the tensioning line. The backstroke acts inopposition to the spring-biasing of the spooling assembly, and thetensioning line is wound-up as the paddle component moves toward thehousing during the rowing motion. During these steps, the platformpivots or rocks side to side, and the person must balance on theplatform while manipulating the paddle component through the rowingmotion.

Additional resistance to the drawing out of the tensioning line alsopreferably is provided by causing the magnetic disc to spin within themagnetic field as the tensioning line is unwound. In this respect, themethod further includes adjusting the resistance that is provided to thedrawing out of the tensioning line by changing the magnetic fieldthrough which the magnetic disk spins as the tensioning line is unwound.

Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood bythose persons skilled in the art that the present invention issusceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments andadaptations of the present invention other than those specificallydescribed herein, as well as many variations, modifications, andequivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggestedby the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, withoutdeparting from the substance or scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein indetail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to beunderstood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary ofthe present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing afull and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosureis not intended to be construed to limit the present invention orotherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations,modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention beinglimited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.

1-12. (canceled)
 13. A method of exercising simulating paddleboarding,comprising the steps of: (a) standing on a platform; and (b) whilestanding on the platform, handling a paddle component of an exercisemachine as if the paddle component were a paddle used in paddleboardingby manipulating the paddle component through a rowing motion including abackstroke, and encountering a resistance during the backstroke of therowing motion that is similar to a resistance encountered when a paddleis used in paddleboarding to propel a paddleboard; (c) wherein thebackstroke of the rowing motion results in the drawing out of atensioning line of the exercise machine which, in turn, causes animpeller of the exercise machine to be driven such that a fluid iscirculated through a closed system of the exercise machine; and (d)wherein tension is maintained in the tensioning line during the rowingmotion by spring-biasing a spooling assembly of the exercise machine towind-up the tensioning line, the backstroke acting in opposition to thespring-biasing of the spooling assembly, and the tensioning line beingwound-up as the paddle component is moved toward the housing during therowing motion.
 14. The method of exercising simulating paddleboarding ofclaim 13, wherein the platform pivots side to side, and furthercomprising balancing on the platform while manipulating the paddlecomponent through the rowing motion.
 15. A method of providing anexercise experience that simulates paddleboarding, comprising the stepsof: (a) spring-biasing a spooling assembly of an exercise machine towind-up a tensioning line, the spring-biasing of the spooling assemblyacting in opposition to a force drawing out the tensioning lineresulting from a backstroke of a rowing motion of a paddle componentthat is configured to be handled by a person in a standing position asif the paddle component were a paddle used in paddleboarding, the paddlecomponent comprising an elongate shaft; (b) causing an impeller of theexercise machine to be driven such that a fluid is circulated through aclosed system of the exercise machine when the tensioning line is drawnout during the backstroke of the rowing motion.
 16. The method ofproviding an exercise experience that simulates paddleboarding of claim15, wherein the step of spring-biasing a spooling assembly of anexercise machine to wind-up a tensioning line is performed using aconstant-force spring.
 17. The method of providing an exerciseexperience that simulates paddleboarding of claim 15, further comprisingproviding resistance to the drawing out of the tensioning line bycausing a magnetic disc to spin within a magnetic field as thetensioning line is unwound.
 18. The method of providing an exerciseexperience that simulates paddleboarding of claim 17, further comprisingadjusting the resistance that is provided to the drawing out of thetensioning line by changing the magnetic field through which themagnetic disk spins as the tensioning line is unwound.
 19. The method ofproviding an exercise experience that simulates paddleboarding of claim15, further comprising the step of the simulating rocking of apaddleboard during paddleboarding by providing an unstable platform onwhich a person stands while handling the paddle component as if thepaddle component were a paddle used in paddleboarding, the unstableplatform configured to rock from side to side as a person balances theperson's weight between the person's feet.
 20. The method of providingan exercise experience that simulates paddleboarding of claim 17,further comprising the step of the simulating rocking of a paddleboardduring paddleboarding by providing an unstable platform on which aperson stands while handling the paddle component as if the paddlecomponent were a paddle used in paddleboarding, the unstable platformconfigured to rock from side to side as a person balances the person'sweight between the person's feet. 21-25. (canceled)